Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. lightweight travel electric wheelchair can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note in order to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.